Gymnema: Information
Gymnema (Gymnema sylvestre) is a climbing vine native to the jungles of southern India. The leaves of the gymnema plant have been used in Indian medicine for decades.
Gymnema's Health Benefits
Studies have shown gymnema to be very effective in lowering extremely high blood sugar in both humans and animals. Researchers have found gymnema to be useful in the treatment of Type I and Type II (adult-onset) diabetes by making more insulin available to break down sugar, thus helping to keep blood sugar levels in check. Animal studies have shown gymnema to have increased two-fold the number of insulin-producing cells in the pancreas. Additional animal studies suggest that gymnema may help lower LDL (“bad”) cholesterol levels.
Using Gymnema Supplements
Use as directed. Gymnema is available in powdered leaf or liquid extract formulas, and in capsule or tablet form. Gymnema is also used with other nutrients that support insulin function and healthy blood sugar levels like alpha lipoic acid and chromium.